Unbound Staffer Brings International Leadership Expertise To Higher Education In Kansas City

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Avila University has introduced two new international education degrees for students. An Unbound staffer has joined Avila's advisory board to bring international expertise to the new program.

Ellen Edgar (second from left) with staff members from Unbound's program in Merida, Mexico.

Unbound has a unique perspective on how to help families out of poverty, and I’m looking forward to using what I’ve learned from working at Unbound to help undergrad and master's students...

Kansas City, KAN. (PRWEB)September 30, 2015

Unbound, an international humanitarian organization based in Kansas City, Kan., is pleased to announce that Ellen Edgar, a project specialist at Unbound, has joined Avila University’s new international programs advisory board.

Avila University is a Catholic university in Kansas City, Mo. Its values-based community of learning prepares students for responsible lifelong contributions to the global community. Aligning with its mission, Avila’s School of Education is now offering two new international education degrees designed for students — both international and domestic — who want to go on to careers with institutions, agencies and schools around the world.

“You wouldn’t think of Kansas City when you hear about international development, but there is actually a lot here,” Edgar said. “Unbound has a unique perspective on how to help families out of poverty, and I’m looking forward to using what I’ve learned from working at Unbound to help undergrad and master's students develop a deeper understanding of education, social justice and world cultures.”

Unbound was founded by lay Catholics in Kansas City in 1981 and works with families living in 20 countries in Latin America, Asia, Africa and the Caribbean. Through its programs, Unbound provides personal attention and direct benefits to children, youth, elders and their families so they may live with dignity, achieve their potential and participate fully in society.

Unbound's international programs staff members are thrilled to see interest in international development from young people in the city where Unbound was founded.

Avila is working toward making itself a regional hub offering global programs.

“In developing these programs, faculty sought to equip leaders with the knowledge, skills and professional experiences to serve vulnerable populations at home and abroad with cultural competence, dedication and excellence,” said Karen Garber-Miller, Ph.D., dean in the School of Education for Avila University. “We are delighted to have professionals like Ellen Edgar from humanitarian organizations like Unbound partnering with us. Advisory board members give consultation, guidance and input about best practices that will help our students be ready for the real-world challenges.”

About Unbound
Unbound is the largest nonprofit organization in Kansas with more than $120 million in annual revenue. Unbound works side by side with people of diverse faiths in 20 countries, bringing people together to challenge poverty in new and innovative ways.

Unbound distributes direct aid as quickly and efficiently as possible to people who need it. 92.5 percent of Unbound's expenses go toward program support.